Scientists test drug to prevent blood clots in COVID-19 patients

Scientists plan to test the experimental drug TRV027, developed by Trevena biopharmaceutical company, to prevent blood clots in COVID-19 patients. It is believed that the drug can balance hormones that affect blood pressure and blood vessels.

According to medportal.ru, approximately a third of patients hospitalized with COVID-19 form numerous blood clots, including in the lungs. The British Heart Foundation believes that this process may be caused by an imbalance between the hormones angiotensin II and angiotensin 1-7, which affect blood pressure and blood vessels. In a healthy person, this balance is maintained by the ACE-2 enzyme, which is located on the surface of cells and through which the SARS-CoV-2 virus enters the body.

The Foundation is organizing a study in which the experimental drug TRV027 will be tested in the treatment of patients with COVID-19 at the initial stage. According to preliminary data, it can restore hormonal imbalance and prevent blood clots. In the past, TRV027 was tested in the treatment of patients with heart failure: its effectiveness has not been proven, but it has proven to be safe.

The study is scheduled to begin next month, and 60 patients with suspected COVID-19 or with a confirmed diagnosis will take part in it. Within eight days, half of them will receive TRV027, the other half will receive a placebo along with standard treatment.

Eight days is a critical period for a COVID-19 patient, during which symptoms may worsen and treatment may be required in the intensive care unit. All this time, researchers will monitor the condition of volunteers.